Dispelling Iowa Tight End Narratives

[99topdawg]

NFL Draft Scout's top tight end and only one with a guaranteed 1st round grade right now:

TIGHT END

A First Round Prototype: TJ Hockenson, Iowa

A first down waiting to happen, you might as well call him, “Mr. Automatic.” Hockenson plays beyond the whistle. He would be an all-pro fullback, the fact that he possesses the size to play tight end and can be a receiving threat as well, makes him a blue chip prospect at his position. After an outstanding season, in which he accumulated 760 receiving yards on 49 receptions and six touchdowns, Hockenson was awarded with the 2018 John Mackey Award as top tight end in the nation. He also took home the Ozzie Newsome Award and First-Team All-American honors. The way he is able to be used is an offensive coordinators dream. He can play inline, he can play outside, h-back, fullback and is a mismatch for linebackers or safeties. He’s a banger; big time blocks and train wreck collisions coming at you. An exceptional blocker who does a nice job of seeking out his targets in the second level and holding his blocks on the seal. He puts emphasis on getting proper positioning. Possesses great size, above average athleticism and certified toughness. It wouldn’t be surprising to see Hockenson go in the top ten.

 

[99topdawg]

9. TE T.J. Hockenson, Iowa

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   Matthew Holst/Getty Images
   Complete tight ends are rare.
   
   An emphasis has been placed on creating mismatches in the passing game, and many prospects develop into oversized wide receivers. A tight end who can be a productive target and a competent blocker might be football's version of a unicorn.
   
   Strap a horn to T.J. Hockenson's forehead, because he represents the mythical creature.
   
   The 2018 John Mackey Award winner led the Iowa Hawkeyes with 760 receiving yards. Like many other successful tight ends, Hockenson has a basketball background. The Hawkeyes recruited the two-sport star knowing he was a work in progress.
   
   "Freaky athlete. I thought he would go back, but I'm glad he didn't," an NFL pro personnel director told NFL.com's Lance Zierlein.
   
   At 6'5" and 250 pounds, Hockenson has always been a dynamic receiver and deep threat down the seam. But he worked diligently to become a good in-line blocker. By the time the redshirt sophomore declared for the draft, multiple bone-crushing blocks of his could be found on social media.
   
   Hockenson comes out of the same system that developed the NFL's latest breakout star, George Kittle. The 21-year-old prospect is further along at the same point in their careers, though.